Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for reducing component wear in an imaging device, comprising: by a raster image processor of the imaging device, receiving a print job; determining whether one or more function features in the imaging device is disabled prior processing the print job; adjusting a default printing performance of the imaging device upon a determination that the one or more function features in the imaging device is disabled; generating a rasterized image for each page of the print job following the adjusting; and sending each rasterized image to a print engine of the imaging device for printing, wherein the adjusting the printing performance of the imaging device reduces the component wear in the imaging device, wherein the adjusting the printing performance includes not sending a command instructing the print engine to transition to a printing state in response to receiving the print job and increasing a time to first print of the imaging device as a result of not sending the command.
This invention relates to reducing component wear in imaging devices, such as printers or multifunction devices, by dynamically adjusting printing performance based on the operational state of the device. The problem addressed is excessive wear on internal components, such as print engines, due to frequent transitions between idle and active states, particularly when certain functions are disabled. The solution involves a raster image processor (RIP) that receives a print job and checks whether one or more function features (e.g., duplexing, stapling, or finishing modules) are disabled. If disabled, the RIP adjusts the default printing performance to minimize component wear. This adjustment includes delaying the transition of the print engine to a printing state, thereby increasing the time to first print. The RIP then generates rasterized images for each page of the print job and sends them to the print engine for printing. By avoiding unnecessary activation of the print engine, the method extends the lifespan of the device's components while maintaining print quality. The approach is particularly useful in environments where certain functions are frequently disabled, reducing unnecessary mechanical stress and energy consumption.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the adjusting the printing performance includes sending an instruction to the print engine for the print engine to shut down following processing of the print job upon a determination that the one or more function features in the imaging device is disabled and decreasing a throughput of the imaging device as a result of sending the instruction.
This invention relates to print management systems that optimize printing performance based on the operational state of an imaging device. The problem addressed is inefficient resource utilization when certain functions of the imaging device are disabled, leading to unnecessary power consumption or reduced throughput. The method involves monitoring the imaging device to detect whether one or more function features are disabled. If a disabled feature is detected, the system adjusts printing performance by sending an instruction to the print engine. The instruction directs the print engine to shut down after completing the current print job, rather than remaining idle. This reduces power consumption and conserves resources. Additionally, the system decreases the throughput of the imaging device by adjusting operational parameters, such as print speed or resolution, to match the reduced functionality. The adjustment ensures that the imaging device operates efficiently without unnecessary delays or energy waste. The method applies to any imaging device with configurable function features, such as printers, copiers, or multifunction devices.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the determining includes identifying by the raster image processor a state of a first function feature and a state of a second function feature of the one or more function features in the imaging device from a controller of the imaging device, the state being one of a disabled state and an enabled state.
This invention relates to imaging devices and methods for managing function features within such devices. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently determine and control the operational states of various function features in an imaging device, such as printers or copiers, to optimize performance and resource allocation. The method involves using a raster image processor (RIP) to identify the states of multiple function features within the imaging device. The RIP checks the status of these features, which can be either disabled or enabled, by querying a controller associated with the imaging device. The controller manages the operational states of the features, and the RIP retrieves this information to make decisions or adjustments based on the current configuration. This allows the imaging device to dynamically adapt to changes in feature availability or user preferences, ensuring efficient operation and resource utilization. The method ensures that the imaging device can accurately assess which features are active or inactive, enabling better control over printing, scanning, or other imaging tasks. This approach enhances flexibility and responsiveness in managing device functions, improving overall system performance.
4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the first function feature includes an advanced start function including instructions to power on the print engine to a printing state following receipt of a print job when the print engine is in idle state.
A method for optimizing print engine operation in a printing system addresses the problem of energy waste and delayed printing when transitioning from an idle state to a printing state. The method involves implementing an advanced start function within a print engine control system. This function includes instructions to power on the print engine to a fully operational printing state immediately upon receiving a print job, eliminating the need for a gradual warm-up period. The print engine is initially in an idle state, where it consumes minimal power but is not ready for immediate printing. Upon receiving a print job, the advanced start function bypasses the traditional warm-up sequence, directly transitioning the print engine to a printing state. This reduces latency in print job execution and improves energy efficiency by avoiding prolonged idle periods. The method may also include additional features such as monitoring print job queues and adjusting power states based on anticipated workloads to further optimize performance. The advanced start function ensures rapid readiness for printing while minimizing energy consumption during idle periods.
5. The method of claim 3 , wherein the second function feature includes a smart run-out function including instructions to keep the power engine powered on as long as a rasterized image is being generated by the raster image processor.
This invention relates to a method for managing power in a printing system, specifically addressing the inefficiency of power consumption during image processing. The problem solved is the unnecessary shutdown of the power engine during raster image generation, which disrupts the printing workflow and reduces efficiency. The method involves a second function feature that includes a smart run-out function. This function ensures the power engine remains powered on as long as a rasterized image is being generated by the raster image processor. The raster image processor converts vector or page description language (PDL) data into a rasterized image, which is then sent to the power engine for printing. The smart run-out function prevents premature power engine shutdown by monitoring the raster image processor's activity. If the raster image processor is still generating a rasterized image, the power engine remains active, avoiding interruptions and maintaining continuous printing operations. This improves efficiency by reducing downtime and ensuring seamless printing workflows.
6. The method of claim 1 , further comprising tracking a number of times that the rasterized image is generated without a slow image generation and reverting back to the default printing performance of the imaging device upon a determination that the number of times exceeded a predetermined counter value.
This invention relates to optimizing image generation in printing devices, specifically addressing the problem of slow image generation during rasterization. The method involves detecting when rasterized image generation is slower than expected and temporarily adjusting the printing performance of the imaging device to compensate. The system monitors the time taken to generate rasterized images and compares it to a threshold. If the generation time exceeds this threshold, the printing performance is adjusted to maintain efficiency. Additionally, the method tracks the number of times the rasterized image is generated without encountering slow performance. If this count exceeds a predetermined value, the system reverts to the default printing performance of the imaging device. This ensures that temporary adjustments do not persist unnecessarily, maintaining optimal long-term performance. The approach balances real-time efficiency with sustained device reliability, preventing prolonged degradation in printing quality or speed.
7. A method of reducing wear on one or more imaging components in an imaging device, comprising: receiving a print job; determining whether a default printing performance of the imaging device needs to be adjusted based on a previous print job following receipt of the print job; upon a positive determination, disabling at least one of a set of functions performed in the imaging device for achieving the default printing performance; and sending a rasterized image corresponding to each page of the print job to a print engine of the imaging device for printing, wherein the disabling the at least one of the set of functions reduces the default printing performance of the imaging device and reducing the default printing performance results in a reduction of the wear on the one or more imaging components in the imaging device thus increasing an allowable life of the one or more imaging components and wherein the determining includes detecting a network connectivity problem while receiving the print job and disabling the at least one of the set of functions performed in the imaging device in response to detecting the network connectivity problem to reduce the default printing performance.
This invention relates to reducing wear on imaging components in an imaging device, such as a printer, by dynamically adjusting printing performance based on operational conditions. The problem addressed is the premature wear of imaging components due to sustained high-performance operation, which shortens their lifespan and increases maintenance costs. The method involves receiving a print job and analyzing whether the imaging device's default printing performance should be adjusted based on the previous print job or current conditions. If adjustment is needed, certain functions that contribute to high-performance printing are disabled. These functions may include high-resolution processing, color calibration, or other performance-enhancing operations. The imaging device then sends a rasterized image of each page to the print engine for printing, but with reduced performance settings. This reduction in performance lowers the stress on imaging components, such as print heads, rollers, or toner cartridges, thereby extending their operational life. A key trigger for adjusting performance is detecting network connectivity issues during print job reception. If such a problem is identified, the device automatically disables one or more performance-related functions to reduce wear. This adaptive approach ensures that the imaging device operates efficiently while minimizing component degradation, particularly in environments where network reliability may fluctuate. The result is a longer lifespan for imaging components, reducing maintenance and replacement costs.
8. The method of claim 7 , further comprising detecting that the network connectivity problem is absent and reverting back to the default printing performance wherein the at least one of the set of functions is enabled following the detecting.
A method for managing network connectivity issues in a printing system involves monitoring network conditions to detect connectivity problems. When a problem is detected, the system temporarily disables at least one function of the printing system to reduce network traffic and improve reliability. The disabled function may include features such as cloud-based services, firmware updates, or status reporting. Once the network connectivity issue is resolved, the system automatically reverts to default printing performance, re-enabling the previously disabled functions. This approach ensures that critical printing operations remain functional while minimizing the impact of network disruptions. The method may also include adjusting the frequency of network communications or prioritizing essential data transmissions during connectivity problems to further optimize performance. The system may use predefined thresholds or real-time monitoring to determine when to disable or re-enable functions, ensuring a seamless user experience.
9. The method of claim 7 , further comprising generating a rasterized image corresponding to each page of the print job prior the sending, detecting a slow image generation while generating each rasterized image, and disabling the set of functions in response to detecting the slow image generation to reduce the default printing performance of the imaging device and to reduce wear on the one or more imaging components.
This invention relates to print job processing in imaging devices, specifically addressing performance and wear issues during rasterization. The method involves generating rasterized images for each page of a print job before sending the data to the imaging device. During this process, the system monitors for slow image generation, which may indicate excessive processing time or resource strain. If slow generation is detected, the system automatically disables a set of functions to reduce the device's default printing performance. This adjustment helps mitigate wear on imaging components, such as printheads or rollers, by avoiding prolonged high-performance operation under suboptimal conditions. The disabled functions may include advanced features like high-resolution rendering, color calibration, or other performance-intensive processes. The method ensures that the imaging device operates within safe operational limits while maintaining basic printing functionality, thereby extending the lifespan of the device and reducing maintenance costs. The approach is particularly useful in environments where print jobs vary in complexity, and consistent performance is critical.
10. The method of claim 7 , wherein the determining includes detecting a slow image generation prior sending each rasterized image and disabling at least one of the set of functions performed in the imaging in response to detecting the slow image generation to reduce the default printing performance of the imaging device.
This invention relates to optimizing printing performance in imaging devices by dynamically adjusting functions to mitigate slow image generation. The problem addressed is the degradation of printing speed when certain image processing tasks, such as rasterization, take longer than expected, leading to inefficient use of device resources and reduced output quality. The method involves monitoring the time taken to generate rasterized images before they are sent to the imaging device. If a delay is detected, indicating slow image generation, the system automatically disables one or more functions performed during imaging. These functions may include color correction, halftoning, or other processing steps that contribute to the delay. By selectively disabling these functions, the system reduces the default printing performance of the device, allowing it to maintain a consistent output rate while avoiding bottlenecks caused by slow image generation. The adjustment ensures that the imaging device operates efficiently without compromising critical aspects of print quality when possible. This approach is particularly useful in high-volume printing environments where delays in image processing can significantly impact productivity.
11. The method of claim 7 , further comprising using a reduced printing performance in processing a second print job following the print job upon disabling the at least one of the set of functions, wherein using the reduced printing performance increases the allowable life of the one or more imaging components.
This invention relates to print job management in printing systems to extend the life of imaging components. The problem addressed is the wear and degradation of imaging components, such as rollers, drums, or fusers, due to continuous high-performance printing operations. The solution involves dynamically adjusting printing performance based on the usage of certain functions to prolong component lifespan. The method involves monitoring the use of specific functions in a print job, such as duplex printing, high-resolution printing, or special media handling. When one or more of these functions are disabled or not used, the system reduces the printing performance for subsequent print jobs. Reduced performance may include lower print speed, reduced resolution, or modified fuser temperature settings. By operating at lower performance levels when possible, the system reduces stress on imaging components, thereby increasing their allowable operational life. The adjustment is applied only to subsequent print jobs, ensuring that the original print job is processed as intended. This approach balances print quality and efficiency with component longevity, particularly in high-volume printing environments.
12. The method of claim 7 , wherein the at least one of the set of functions includes a first function for instructing the print engine to transition to a printing state following the receiving of the print job and a second function for instructing the print engine to remain in the printing state following processing of the print job and while processing a second print job.
This invention relates to print engine control in printing systems, specifically addressing the need for efficient state management during print job processing. The method involves controlling a print engine to optimize its operational states, particularly during transitions between idle and active printing modes. The system receives a print job and executes a first function to transition the print engine from an idle state to a printing state. After completing the initial print job, a second function ensures the print engine remains in the printing state while processing a subsequent print job, eliminating the need for repeated state transitions. This reduces latency and improves throughput by maintaining the print engine in an active state for consecutive jobs, rather than cycling between idle and printing modes. The approach enhances efficiency in high-volume printing environments where minimizing downtime is critical. The method may also include additional functions to further optimize print engine performance, such as adjusting power states or managing job queues. The invention is particularly useful in multi-job printing scenarios where continuous operation is desired.
13. The method of claim 7 , further comprising tracking a number of times that the rasterized image is sent to the print engine without disabling the at least one of the set of functions and reverting back to the default printing performance upon a determination that the number of times exceeded a predetermined counter value.
This invention relates to print engine performance management in digital printing systems. The problem addressed is the need to balance print quality and performance when a print engine encounters errors or anomalies, such as paper jams or misfeeds, that may require temporary adjustments to printing functions like speed, resolution, or color calibration. The solution involves dynamically disabling certain print engine functions in response to detected errors to maintain operational stability, while also tracking the frequency of such adjustments to avoid prolonged performance degradation. The method includes monitoring the print engine for errors and, upon detection, automatically disabling one or more functions to prevent further issues. The print engine continues operating with reduced functionality until the error is resolved. Additionally, the system tracks how many times the print engine operates with disabled functions without resolving the underlying issue. If this count exceeds a predetermined threshold, the system reverts to default printing performance, assuming the error is persistent or non-critical. This ensures that print quality and efficiency are restored when temporary adjustments are no longer effective. The approach improves reliability by dynamically adapting to errors while preventing long-term performance degradation.
14. An imaging device including a method for reducing component wear in the imaging device, comprising: a controller having an associated memory, the memory including instructions for executing a set of functions for achieving a default printing performance of the imaging device; a raster image processor for generating a rasterized image for each page of a print job; and a print engine for outputting the rasterized image onto a media sheet passed through the imaging device, wherein the raster image processor includes instructions to: determine prior processing the print job whether at least one of the set of functions are disabled; reduce the default printing performance upon a determination that the at least one of the set of functions are disabled; and send each rasterized image to the print engine for printing using the reduced default printing performance following performing the instructions to reduce the default printing performance, wherein performing the instructions to reduce the default printing performance result in the component wear in the imaging device to be reduced and wherein the raster image processor further includes instructions to determine whether slow image generation exists during one of prior and during the sending of each rasterized image to the print engine and to disable the at least one of the set of functions upon a positive determination for reference by the raster image processor when another print job is received in the imaging device.
An imaging device includes a system for reducing component wear by dynamically adjusting printing performance based on operational conditions. The device comprises a controller with memory storing instructions for executing functions that achieve a default printing performance level. A raster image processor generates rasterized images for each page of a print job, while a print engine outputs these images onto media sheets. The raster image processor determines whether certain functions are disabled before processing a print job. If any functions are disabled, the processor reduces the default printing performance to minimize component wear. The rasterized images are then sent to the print engine for printing at this reduced performance level. Additionally, the raster image processor monitors for slow image generation during or before sending rasterized images to the print engine. If slow image generation is detected, the processor disables the affected functions, ensuring this information is referenced for future print jobs to further reduce wear. This adaptive approach extends the lifespan of imaging device components by dynamically adjusting performance based on real-time conditions and historical data.
15. The imaging device of claim 14 , wherein the set of functions includes an advanced start function including instructions to power on the print engine to a printing state from being in an idle state following receipt of a print job in the imaging device and a smart run-out function including instructions to keep the power engine powered on as long as a rasterized image is being generated by the raster image processor.
This invention relates to an imaging device with enhanced power management features designed to improve efficiency and responsiveness. The device includes a print engine and a raster image processor (RIP) that converts print job data into rasterized images for printing. The imaging device is configured to execute a set of functions that optimize power usage during printing operations. One key function is an advanced start feature that powers on the print engine from an idle state to a printing state upon receiving a print job. This ensures the print engine is ready to process the job immediately, reducing delays. Another function is a smart run-out feature that keeps the print engine powered on as long as the RIP is generating a rasterized image. This prevents unnecessary power cycling, improving efficiency by maintaining continuous operation during active printing tasks. The imaging device may also include a power management controller that monitors the status of the print engine and RIP to determine when to activate or deactivate these functions. The advanced start and smart run-out features work together to balance responsiveness and energy consumption, ensuring the print engine is active only when needed for printing tasks. This approach enhances overall performance while reducing power waste during idle periods.
16. The imaging device of claim 15 , wherein the default printing performance of the imaging device is observed when the advanced start function and the smart run-out function of the imaging device are enabled.
The invention relates to imaging devices, specifically addressing the challenge of optimizing printing performance while managing consumable usage. The device includes an advanced start function that initiates printing operations before all necessary data is fully processed, reducing perceived wait times. Additionally, a smart run-out function monitors consumable levels and adjusts printing parameters to minimize interruptions when supplies are low. When both functions are enabled, the device operates at a default printing performance level, balancing speed and efficiency with resource management. The advanced start function ensures quick response times by preloading data, while the smart run-out function dynamically adjusts settings to extend consumable life. This combination enhances user experience by maintaining consistent performance while preventing unexpected disruptions due to low supplies. The system may also include a user interface for enabling or disabling these functions, allowing customization based on user preferences. The invention aims to improve productivity and reliability in imaging devices by integrating these intelligent features.
17. The imaging device of claim 14 , wherein the raster image processor further includes instructions to track a number of occurrences where the slow image generation is absent and to enable the set of functions when the number of occurrences exceeds a predetermined limit to revert a printing performance of the imaging device back to the default printing performance.
This invention relates to imaging devices, specifically addressing the problem of degraded printing performance due to slow image generation. The system includes a raster image processor (RIP) that monitors and adjusts printing operations to maintain optimal performance. The RIP detects instances where slow image generation is absent, tracking these occurrences. When the number of such instances exceeds a predetermined threshold, the RIP enables a set of functions to restore the device's printing performance to its default state. This ensures consistent and reliable printing by dynamically responding to performance deviations. The invention also includes a default printing performance mode, which the device reverts to when necessary, and a slow image generation mode that temporarily adjusts operations to handle performance issues. The tracking mechanism ensures that the device only reverts to default performance when sufficient evidence of stable operation is detected, preventing unnecessary disruptions. This approach improves efficiency and reliability in imaging devices by balancing performance adjustments with system stability.
Unknown
October 29, 2019
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